2nd BEST4 Seminar: four legends united in Utrecht
On October 19, 2025, the second edition of the BEST4 Seminar took place in Utrecht — an intensive training day where hundreds of martial arts enthusiasts from the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and England came together for inspiration, technique, and cross-pollination. This event once again demonstrated that the Dutch martial arts scene is leading in seminars with an international appeal.
Four icons in the line-up:
Ernesto Hoost
Four-time K-1 champion and a legend in the kickboxing world.
Andy Souwer
Technically versatile fighter, known for his combinations, timing, and perseverance.
Albert Kraus
Veteran in the Dutch kickboxing world, with extensive experience both domestically and abroad.
Semmy Schilt
With his height, reach, and reputation, always an impressive presence, both physically and mentally.
Each of the gentlemen brought their own perspective and thoughts on martial arts: Hoost with powerful combinations and defense, Souwer with refined precision technique, Kraus with insight, and Schilt with strength, strategy, and mindset.
Surrounding these four top names, the organization collaborated with local (top) coaches, sparring partners, and staff who ensured guidance and security throughout the day.
Program and structure
The day was carefully structured, with a varied warm-up, several technique blocks, sparring, special techniques, and video analysis.
Reception and introduction
Participants were welcomed, received their seminar shirt or materials, and there was a brief opening outlining the day's goal: growth, connection, and quality training.
General warm-up and mobility
Preparing the body: mobility exercises, stretching, core activation, dynamic drills to prevent injuries and get the body ready for the seminar.
Technique blocks
In two or more sessions, the legends took turns leading. Topics varied: low kicks and kick sequences, combinations, clinch defense, and various pad drills. Participants were divided into smaller groups to allow for more personal attention.
Sparring
Under the supervision of experienced coaches and referees, participants could engage in short sparring rounds with changing partners. The emphasis was on controlled intensity, applying learned techniques, and participants were allowed to ask questions to the legends and assistant coaches.
Special clinics / deepening sessions
Specific themes were highlighted in separate blocks, such as kicking power, defensive positioning, combinations under pressure, or which conditioning exercises are relevant for the participants' martial arts level.
Q and A; and storytelling
During (or after) the training blocks, there was room for questions: how to deal with setbacks, injuries, training periods, career planning, mindset, and competition preparation. The legends shared personal stories, anecdotes, and reflected on memorable moments from their careers.
Feedback and networking
The day concluded with thank-yous, group photos, certificate presentations (if applicable), and a closing speech. It was often emphasized that this was not the end, but a starting point — participants were invited to further apply the knowledge gained in their clubs.
Importance and impact for the martial arts community
Improving technical level
By learning from absolute top names, coaches and fighters can discover gaps and grow. The effect extends further: back in the gym, the knowledge can be spread.
Participants from all over Europe
Participants from four countries ensured cross-pollination, networking, exchange of ideas, and possible future collaborations between clubs in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.
Enhancing the BEST4 brand
By delivering such a high-quality edition, BEST4 strengthens its position as a top-class seminar — an event serious fighters or trainers don’t want to miss.
When is the next edition?
At the time of writing this blog, no official date has been announced for the next edition of the BEST4 Seminar.
Want to stay up to date? Keep an eye on the communication channels of Fight2Win.nl, Senshi, BEST4, Semmy Schilt, and Ernesto Hoost — a new edition will be announced via social media and our email newsletters.
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